Austria’s Underrated Cultural Hub Just Got a Direct Flight From London – Here’s What to Explore
Linz is Austria’s third-largest city, but it’s often the quiet understudy to Vienna and Salzburg. That’s exactly why it’s worth your attention. With Ryanair launching a new route from London Stansted in March 2025, this Danube-side gem is finally stepping into the spotlight.
A city that blends history with cutting-edge creativity, Linz offers everything from medieval castles to futuristic museums, buzzing cafés, and riverside chill spots. Whether you’re a culture vulture, a foodie, or just in need of a change of scenery, Linz is ready to surprise.
Why Linz Made the Ryanair List
Vibrant arts scene
Linz is a UNESCO City of Media Arts, packed with galleries, street art, and experimental music venues.
Historic architecture meets modern design
From Linz’s medieval Old Town and imposing castles to the futuristic Ars Electronica Center, Linz is a fascinating mix of old and new.
Stunning natural backdrop
The Danube River flows gracefully through the city, offering scenic walking and cycling routes right on the water.
Five Things You Absolutely Have to Do in Linz
1. Explore the Ars Electronica Center
Known as the “Museum of the Future,” this interactive science and technology centre is pure fun for all ages. Expect hands-on exhibits, digital art installations, and mind-bending displays about robotics, AI, and space. It’s a peek into tomorrow — today.
Visit info: ars.electronica.art/center/en/
2. Wander the Old Town and Visit Linz Castle
Stroll through cobbled streets lined with colourful baroque buildings. Stop by Linz Castle, perched above the Danube, where you can soak up history and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Inside, the castle museum tells Linz’s story from medieval times to now.
3. Walk or Cycle Along the Danube
The Danube promenade is one of Linz’s best-kept secrets. Grab a bike or lace up your walking shoes and cruise along the riverbanks, passing parks, cafés, and lively markets. Stop at Donaulände for a picnic or a boat tour.
4. Visit the Lentos Art Museum
Lentos is home to a stunning collection of modern and contemporary art. The glass-fronted building, the Lentos Art Museum, sits right on the Danube and showcases works by Austrian and international artists. It’s the perfect stop if you’re craving culture with a view.
5. Taste Linz’s Sweet Tradition — Linzer Torte
You can’t leave without trying Linzer Torte, the world’s oldest known cake. It’s a buttery, nutty pastry filled with tangy redcurrant jam, often topped with a lattice crust. Find it in any café, and pair it with a rich Austrian coffee for the perfect afternoon treat.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Getting around
Linz is very walkable, but public transport is excellent with trams and buses covering the city and outskirts. The airport shuttle links Linz Airport to the city centre in under 30 minutes.
Local food to try
Besides Linzer Torte, try Käsekrainer (cheese-filled sausages) and Brettljause (Austrian cold cuts platter) in a traditional tavern.
Best phrases to know
- “Wo ist die Altstadt?” — Where is the Old Town?
- “Ein Stück Linzer Torte, bitte.” — A piece of Linzer Torte, please.
- “Wie komme ich zum Donauufer?” — How do I get to the Danube riverbank?
Linz may not have the hype of Vienna or Salzburg, but that’s exactly what makes it special. A city full of surprises, where tradition and innovation dance alongside the Danube, now just a quick flight from London.
Read more of our European Destinations Blogs!